Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Here we go again, then. Studio album number eight from Ray LaMontagne is doing him no disservice in terms of that formidable reputation. Taking on the roles of producer, engineer, singer, songwriter and every-instrumentalist for the purposes of this record, words like 'auteur' certainly make sense when talking about 'Monovision'.Enough preamble, onto the main event - 'Monovision' is the perfect reflection of a musician in peak form. When that iconic, throaty voice roars out over the slight-of-hand acoustic guitar plucks of opener 'Roll Me Mama, Roll Me', you're immediately captivated. Tracks like 'Strong Enough' set the tempo much higher, stomping a way through old timey rock 'n' roll tones, standing in complete contrast to the tender refrains and more mournful (or at least reflective) atmospheres of 'Summer Clouds' and 'We'll Make It Through'. To be honest, we're barely worthy.

Review: Six years ago, an iconic and emotional concert at Madison Square Gardens marked the end of LCD Soundsystem. The accompanying documentary 'Shut Up and Play The Hits' delved into frontman James Murphy's reasons for the decision, with self-examination, a need for change and a fear of old age playing a part. Fast forward to 2017, and the surprise release of three singles accompanying the announcement of a comeback album triggers anticipation and a sigh of relief from fans everywhere. 'American Dream' meets expectations and at times surpasses them, with the familiar driving disco rhythms, strutting funk basslines and heartfelt morning-after-the-night-before ballads feeling like a well-needed catch up with an old friend. The current musical, social and political climates provide Murphy with platforms for his self-effacing and acerbic witticisms. This strong return to form was needed now perhaps more than ever, but simultaneously feels like they never left in the first place.

Review: Leftifled's Leftism remains one of the great dance music albums of all time. It came back in the 90s when no one was making full lengths that really made the most of the format: This is not a collection of club tracks but a musical voyage through dub, techno, bass and house that is meticulously designed and all-consuming once you turn it up nice and loud. In fact, it is best enjoyed in one sitting rather than in the modern playlist fashion with tracks broken up because that way the pressure is built and released, the moods ebb and flow and the music really makes an indelible impact.

Review: Leftfield really managed to make lightning strike twice back in their heyday. After the pair's seminal self-titled debut album set a new benchmark for what was possible with a dance music full length, they managed to do it again with Rhythm & Stealth. It will be forever best known for the tune that was picked and used in the Guinness advert ('Phat Planet') but that is just one of the many highlights. The album originally came in 1999 and was nominated for the 2000 Mercury Music Prize as well as making number one on the UK Albums Chart. It is a full-fat mix of epic basslines, driving percussion and dark moods that adds up to a head-melting soundtrack to a damn good night.